Monday

Phthalates in Sex Toys

There has been a great deal of discussion about phthalates recently, particularly since Greenpeace called for a complete ban on phthalates used in the manufacture of sex toys.

What are Phthalates?
Phthalates are chemicals which are used to soften PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), making it more flexible and durable. They are used in a variety of domestic products from building materials to things like shower curtains, as well as food wrapping and many medical products. When used in sex toys, phthalates give them a soft, rubbery feel, making them a more realistic texture.

Are they harmful?
Since the call by Greenpeace to have them banned in sex toys, a serious debate has taken place between sex toy manufacturers and scientists regarding the safety of phthalates in sex toys. Whether or not they are harmful has yet to be decided. Certainly research with rats has shown a detrimental effect, but this was at very high doses. Other research has failed to show any risk at all to health, so we’re a long way from a firm position on this.

There are other issues to consider with phthalates, however, and these involve the quality of the material itself. Toys containing phthalates tend be use cheaper materials and are essentially porous which means that they can break down over time, allowing the chemicals in the plastic to leach out of them. This porousness also means the surface traps dirt and bacteria, making the toy difficult to keep clean.

Can I tell if my toys contain Phthalates?
Phthalate containing toys have a pungent plastic smell, not unlike the one you find with new shower curtains before they’ve had a chance to air and lose their smell.

Typically, phthalates are found in jelly toys which have a very soft and rubbery feel to them, and more commonly in cheaper sex toys. They can also be found in vinyl toys, although these tend to contain only minute amounts.

Should I throw my toys out?
If you think your favourite toy may contain phthalates there’s no need to consign it to the bin. Simply pop a condom over it and carry on having fun!

It’s also worth bearing in mind that so many toys nowadays do not contain phthalates at all. Silicone toys such as Dildos, Vibrators and Butt Plugs do not contain phthalates, and can even be boiled without damaging the toy (don’t forget to remove the vibrator unit first, if it has one).

There are also toys made from elastomer, a new plastic which contains neither phthalates nor latex, such as the LayaSpot

Which materials do not contain Phthalates?
Sex toys made of the following materials are phthalate free;

Silicone
Glass
Medical Grade Stainless Steel (316)
Other Stainless Steel (304) or Metal toys and Cock Rings
ABS Plastic – a hard plastic
Elastomer – a soft plastic
Leather
Wood
Polypropolene – a hard plastic often used for prostate massagers
It’s up to you which material you choose when buying toys, but be assured we will keep you up to date and informed on this issue and others to help you make a better choice for your self.